The vision behind this backyard soiree is simple. A casual, completely personal party that celebrates a love spanning across 10 years. And by bringing Truly You Events, Petals Lane and Eventions on board, the day turned into all that, plus more. Love Me Do Photography snapped up every swoon-worthy second, and it’s all sitting pretty right here.
From Chrissy at Truly You Events… Julia and Dan were absolute dreamboats when it came to planning their wedding. From our first meeting, and throughout the planning process, they were able to communicate and stay true to one clear vision for their big day: a laid back, beautifully detailed wedding in the backyard of Julia’s family ranch. Having dated for 10 years and attended many weddings together, Julia and Dan were strongly committed to creating something totally personal and unique for their special day. Instead of having a traditional bridal party and long straight aisle, Julia & Dan exchanged vows underneath of an apple tree surrounded by all of their siblings, nieces, nephews and parents. A few chairs were set for VIPs, and all other guests gathered round with drinks in hand. A close college friend officiated their self uniting ceremony and as Julia entered the backyard from a side gate, an acoustic version of “Julia” by the Beatles was played.
For the reception, Julia and Dan wanted to highlight the beauty of the ranch and its backyard as much as possible. The tents were erected two feet higher than usual so that guests could look out and enjoy the beauty of the gardens and pond as they entered the event from inside of the ranch. The escort cards were wrapped around another tree near the pond, and the dining table flowers were selected to compliment the blooms that grow naturally in the backyard. Even the rosemary sprig that put the finishing touch on each place setting was inspired by the rosemary bush grown on property by Julia’s step dad.
For dinner, guests enjoyed a family style meal underneath of a canopy of lights. In each of the two tents, Eventions strung up over 450 lights to create the canopy effect. Julia’s stepbrother actually raised the pigs that were brined all week and then slow cooked on site by the Garces chefs for dinner. Instead of the traditional wedding cake, Julia & Dan opted for seasonal pies and cakes presented in mason jars and french macaroons for each table. The wooden lifts on the dessert station, directional sign post and beautiful card catcher were hand crafted by Julia’s Dad who dabbles in woodworking. As their planner, I loved seeing the way their DIY pieces worked in perfect harmony with the professionally created design elements. One of my favorite moments happened when Julia’s step dad welcomed guests on behalf of the bride, the groom and both of their modern families. The whole crowd raised a glass and let out an audible cheer. The warmth and openness in that moment really encompassed what this wedding was about. Working with Julia & Dan and their loving modern families was truly something special.
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Photography: Amanda Jaffe, Love Me Do Photography | Wedding Planning: Christiane Lehman, Truly You Events | Catering: Garces Catering | Floral Design: Petals Lane | Tent: Eventquip | Lighting: Eventions | Paper: Hand Painted Weddings | Ceremony/Cocktail Musicians: Joe DiVita Trio | DJ: Ari Rosenfield, Beat Train Productions | Wedding Dress: Reem Acra | Hair Styling: Pileggi on the Square | Guest Transportation: Philadelphia Trolley Works